Packing the Perfect Picnic for National Picnic Month

It should come as no surprise that the biggest day for picnics in the United States happens on July Fourth! The entire month of July is dedicated to packing up a basket, putting down a blanket, and enjoying a meal outside. There is no time like the present to head outdoors with the perfect meal to celebrate National Picnic Month.

When packing your picnic basket there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you want to make sure that you are packing a well-balanced meal. Try to include foods from every food group to ensure that you and your fellow picnickers are obtaining all the essential nutrients needed to function properly.

Once your basket is all packed, you may be wondering what to do with your time not spent eating. There are so many activities that you can do at your picnic. You can bring along some easy items to start a game or just use your imagination once you get there.

All About Balance

Picnics can be at any time of day and at any location, no matter where you decide to unload your basket, make sure to pack all the essentials. Incorporate all the food groups in your picnic basket. Use these tips for guidance:

Fat: Many people shy away from fats; however, your body needs fat! The body utilizes fat for numerous purposes including energy, protecting your organs from damage, and properly absorbing fat-soluble nutrients such as Vitamins A, D, E, and K. When putting together your picnic meal, try to include foods higher in unsaturated fats and lower in saturated fats such as avocado, nuts, and seeds.

Fruits: Eating a variety of fruits is essential to ensure that your body is obtaining all the micronutrients needed to fuel your body. Berries contain the antioxidant Vitamin C which is used to help fight disease. Most fruits are also high in fiber to help aid in digestion. Fruits such as strawberries and blueberries can add a pop of color to your picnic as well as some extra sweetness.

Grains: This is a food group that many people unfairly demonize. Carbohydrates found in grains are used by the body and the brain for energy. When you are choosing a grain, try and choose whole grains to get as many of the nutritional benefits a whole grain offers, as well as dietary fiber. Fiber helps to keep your gut healthy and your bowel movements regular. Make your sandwiches on whole grain bread or pack an ancient grain such as couscous as a side.

Protein: Protein is a macronutrient that the body uses as a building block. Protein is involved in a myriad of processes including the repair of tissues and chemical messaging. You can obtain protein from animal sources or plant-based sources. Depending on the dietary habits of your fellow outdoor adventurers, you can pack chicken, cold cuts or bean salad.

Vegetables: Of course, just like every fruit, every vegetable has a different nutrient profile and thus various functions in the body. Make sure to pack various colors of vegetables for your picnic as different colors provide different micronutrients and phytonutrients. You can try pepper strips for dipping or a summer salad.

Fun in the Sun

Now that the food is packed and ready to go, you are probably wondering what else you can do at your picnic. There are so many activities that you can choose from, here are just a few:

Rollerblade: The 1990s are making a comeback in the form of rollerblades! Enjoy the sun and get your body moving.

Cornhole: If you have the space for cornhole boards, be sure to pack them as this is a crowd-pleasing game that will keep you busy for hours.

Horseshoes: A backyard classic game that is fun for people of all ages.

Tag: You don’t even need to bring anything with you! All you need are a few friends, and the laughs and good times will ensue.

There is just so much to do and so little time! The best thing about picnics is spending time with the people you care about and all the delicious food. So, grab some friends, a basket, and some tasty treats and head outside for National Picnic Month!

Your Turn to Action: What do you like to pack for picnics? Let me know in the comments below.